NOMINATIONS for the Nowra RSL Sub Branch Kane’s Kokoda Challenge are now open.

The Kane’s Kokoda Challenge Foundation was established in memory of the late Chief Petty Officer Kane Vandenberg who was killed in 2013.

This foundation is aimed at giving young people of the Shoalhaven an opportunity to walk the Kokoda Track but more importantly allowing these individuals to tackle challenges, be part of a team and encourage leadership skills.

The trek is all part of the RSL and Services Club’s Kokoda Trek Youth Leadership Challenge.

The Nowra RSL has sponsored two participants in the challenge, PO Vandenberg’s son Lachlan in 2015 and Andrew Taylor last year.

Both described the challenge as an excellent experience from which they both learnt a lot.

The age group for nominations is between 17-25 and the trek will take place on September 23 to October 4, which is the first week of school holidays.

Locally, applications close on Monday, April 10.

This will allow the Nowra committee time assess all applications and select the successful participant before the nomination period closes on April 28.

The successful applicant will be notified by phone and letter and must be well aware of the costs the Nowra RSL Sub Branch will cover and will not cover, as laid down in the FAQS of the Trekkers Guide.

For further information contact the Nowra RSL through Debby on 0413 787 858 or Rick Meehan on 0428 443361.